White-collar crimes frequently relate to fraud. Professionals in a variety of careers can lie to people or misrepresent circumstances for financial gain. There are various types of fraud that are technically violations of both state and federal laws. People accused of wire fraud might expect to face state charges. However, they are likely at risk of federal prosecution.
Why does the federal government prosecute charges that could also be state offenses?
Many factors influence criminal jurisdiction
When a crime is an offense at both the state and federal levels, the details of the situation dictate which courts have the jurisdiction to prosecute. Many white-collar crimes end up leading to federal prosecution due to specific complicating factors.
Wire fraud, in particular, often provides a basis for federal prosecution due to the use of federal infrastructure. The process of using telecommunication systems could give the federal government jurisdiction to prosecute the people accused of wire fraud.
Wire fraud cases typically involve the use of telecommunications, including phone calls and the internet, to manipulate and trick people for financial gain. Phishing scams are examples of modern wire fraud. The use of telecommunication infrastructure opens the door to federal prosecution.
Additionally, fraud schemes involving telecommunications often cross state lines. Some cases of alleged wire fraud may be so complex that federal agencies assist with the investigation process. All of those factors may lead to a defendant facing charges in federal court instead of state criminal courts.
People facing white-collar criminal charges often need help developing a viable criminal defense strategy. Consulting with a professional familiar with federal prosecution can help white-collar defendants develop viable criminal defense strategies.
